Suggestions for short-term invest of $30K.

Spouse and I are closer to the retirement end of middle-aged and at this point are low-risk in our investments. We have about $30K we'd like to be earning a bit more than it currently is in a savings account. This is separate from a healthy emergency fund, but we'd also like the option to be able to touch it as needed. RRSPs are in my spouse's name, so I have ample space to put funds in under mine, as well as an unused TFSA with plenty of headroom.

GIC rates are currently crap (we keep $5K rolling in one via RBC to reduce our bank fees). Seeing recommendations like EQ's savings account/GIC, but would prefer to not open any new bank accounts - my spouse likes having a physical location to go into, hence our not using a no-fee bank.

Our investment advisor suggested variable bonds, just curious as to what else might be out there. Haven't explored ETFs as an option, is that something we can look into on the low-risk tip.